Discover Nature and Art at Bristol’s 27th Annual Wildlife Weekend

Discover the Beauty of Nature and Art at Bristol’s 27th Annual Wildlife Weekend

BRISTOL, Tenn. — Mark your calendars! Next month, the 27th Annual Wildlife Weekend will take place at the beautiful Steele Creek Park. This much-loved event promises a delightful mix of wildlife and art, showcasing the rich natural beauty surrounding our very own city. The theme this year is “Arts in the Natural World”, and it’s set to be an inspiring weekend full of engaging activities for everyone.

Kickoff Reception and Keynote Address

The festivities will kick off on October 11 at 6:30 p.m. with a special reception and keynote address featuring the talented artist and author Suzanne Stryk. Known for her breathtaking nature paintings showcased in galleries across the U.S., Stryk will discuss her latest work and approach to art. Her talk, titled “Taking the Pulse of Place: Connecting to the Natural World through the Arts,” will delve into her travels across Virginia and her mixed media pieces, reflecting on the stunning landscapes and rich culture of the area. After her presentation, she will be available to sign copies of her latest book, The Middle of Somewhere: An Artist Explores the Nature of Virginia, which documents her adventures and is selling for just $20.

Photo Contest and Awards Ceremony

As the evening unfolds, it will culminate with the Amateur Photography Contest awards ceremony. This contest celebrates the stunning photography of local talent, and cash prizes will be awarded in both adult and youth categories based on the quality of nature-themed photos taken in Steele Creek Park. The winning prints will be displayed at The Nature Center throughout the weekend, giving everyone a chance to appreciate these captivating visuals.

Don’t worry about the budget — all Friday events are free to attend, aside from a small $2 per vehicle park entry fee. But don’t forget to reserve your spot at bristoltn.recdesk.com, as space will be limited!

Educational Programming for Nature Lovers

Wildlife Weekend continues on October 12, offering an exciting lineup of educational programming that promises to delight nature enthusiasts of all ages. The day kicks off at 11 a.m. with mini-sessions led by local topic experts.

Be sure to catch Matt Keller, who will be presenting a 30-minute session on wildlife photography. He’ll even take participants into the park afterward for a practical photo-taking session, so don’t forget to bring your camera!

Another highlight of the day will be Vanessa Hawley from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. She will discuss Raptor Rehab, bringing along some incredible feathered friends for a hands-on demonstration. Attendees will get the chance to learn about raptor preservation, and likely meet a red-tailed hawk, a great horned owl, and a screech owl up close!

Join the Fun!

Wildlife Weekend at Steele Creek Park is an event designed to ignite a love for nature and art in our community. Whether you’re an art lover, photography enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys the great outdoors, this weekend promises something for everyone.

So, gather your friends and family, enjoy the beauty of our natural surroundings, and let’s celebrate the connection between art and wildlife together! We hope to see you there!